From drought to abundance in Kenya
In the heart of Marsabit’s drylands, the Shurr Conservancy community is redefining climate resilience, not just for people, but also for livestock and wildlife. By combining traditional knowledge with climate-smart innovation, this pastoralist community is confronting the harsh realities of climate change head-on, improving food security, strengthening livelihoods, and protecting biodiversity.
In July, WWF-Kenya, in partnership with Marsabit-based civil society organisations — the Marsabit Wildlife Conservancies Association and the Pastoralist Integrated Support Programme — launched the Shurr Climate Smart Farm. The 20-acre demonstration farm, where watermelons and onions have been cultivated, aims to boost local food production and showcase sustainable agricultural practices.
In the surrounding community, the initiative has also established women-led kitchen gardens, introduced poultry farming, and promoted clean cooking solutions, creating new livelihood opportunities and reducing reliance on firewood.
The solar-powered borehole installed by WWF-Kenya in 2024 as part of the drought response not only supports irrigation at the farm but also supplies vital water to wildlife in the area.
To ensure sustainability, the Shurr Conservancy community plans to use the proceeds from the climate-smart farm to fund part of their operations for the protection of key wildlife species, including lions, elephants, giraffes and the Grevy’s Zebras.
Ultimately, this project offers a powerful example of how locally-led, practical solutions can build climate resilience in Kenya’s rangelands, blending innovation and tradition for the benefit of people and nature.
